Heart-Healthy Classic Bolognese Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with a wholesome twist in this **Heart-Healthy Classic Bolognese Pasta** recipe. This lighter version of the traditional favorite swaps out beef for lean ground turkey or chicken, keeps sodium levels in check with low-sodium broth, and pairs the rich, slow-simmered tomato-based sauce with nutrient-packed whole wheat spaghetti. Aromatics like onion, garlic, carrot, and celery enhance the depth of flavor, while a blend of dried oregano and basil adds classic Italian flair. Ready in just over an hour, this hearty dish is topped with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for health-conscious home cooks. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly dinner or a heart-smart option to impress guests, this Bolognese is a guilt-free way to savor classic pasta night.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium Carrot, finely chopped
- 1 Celery stalk, finely chopped
- 16 ounces Lean ground turkey or chicken
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
- 28 ounces Canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 12 ounces Whole wheat spaghetti
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey or chicken. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking up any large pieces with a spoon.
Stir in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add a ladle or two of the Bolognese sauce to the pasta and toss until lightly coated.
Serve the pasta on plates topped with additional Bolognese sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1901 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 76.1 g | 98% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.5 g | 123% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 410 mg | 137% | |
| Sodium | 2487 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 172.7 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.7 g | 135% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.1 g | ||
| Protein | 159.0 g | 318% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1241 mg | 95% | |
| Iron | 22.7 mg | 126% | |
| Potassium | 5914 mg | 126% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
